Kilimanjaro Special - Never Again

Jim Eite first summited Kilimanjaro in 2000, Paul Goldstein in 1993. Between them they have done a century of ascents successfully. They have both put on the record that 'if anyone ever sees them again anywhere near this 'hill' to immediately put them on a bus to Zanzibar.' So much for that, both are now going to guide this trek one last time and for a very worthy reason.

They have an enviable record of putting trekkers on top of Africa, and, with their team of guides and porters will ensure every chance of bagging this considerable, fabled peak. Both are committed to advancing the skills and livelihood of their porters and are both doing their swansong treks for the Porter Schools in Tarakea, Arusha and Marangu. For anyone who has harboured a desire to conquer Kilimanjaro, this is a superb opportunity to do so successfully. A donation of £50 per person will be added onto the tour price for the porters school project. This project was set up by Exodus in 2004, creating three schools to teach English to the porters during the non trekking rainy seasons

This successful initiative has provided the porters with essential skills to help them progress in the local tourism industry, both with our local partners, and with other companies in the area. The English lessons will help the porters to become cooks, assistant guides or even chief guides where being able to converse with clients is an essential skill.

For potential trekkers, here are Jim and Paul's top tips for success. If this appeals to you then they look forward to welcoming you:

Six Appeal:

1. Superfit Me - Cardiovascular fitness is no guarantee of success but it really does help, dust off your bike, trainers or swimming gear and get your lungs in order.
2. Hare and the tortoise - Go slow, really slow on the mountain, slow acclimatization is critical, you win no prizes for being first into camp each day.
3. Water, water everywhere - Yes you may be up all night, but like an engine needs oil, so does a body, especially at altitude. Make sure you have plenty of it.
4. Aural hygiene - Ear plugs? Bring them, especially if you are with Jim! If you think people snore at sea level, try 4000m!
5. Chocoholics - appetite becomes jaded above 3500m, you may well think power bars and intravenous isotonic beverages help, but have you tasted them?! Chocolate is very temporary, but awfully good.
6. No pain, no gain - this will hurt, it affects people differently and some do not make it. However a decent pain threshold and positive attitude is the hardest currency of all, good luck on the mountain.

Paul's Rongai Route departure: 3 September 08

Jim's Northern Circuit departure: Tuesday 13th Jan - Fri 23rd Jan (land only dates)

Both will be doing it to support our Kilimanjaro porters school project. Please call the Sales Team for details about these two special departures.